Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-320-261 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-320-261

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-320-261 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster industry, this particular model boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III retention, providing a secure and reliable platform for your firearm. The nylon-look finish offers a professional appearance and added durability, making it an excellent choice for those who require a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use.

I needed a holster that offered both security and ease of access for my duty weapon. I was specifically looking for a Level III retention holster that wouldn’t compromise on draw speed and comfort. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III seemed to be the perfect blend of these features.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the holster’s robust construction. The nylon-look material felt durable and professional, and the overall build quality was exceptional. The holster had a substantial but not cumbersome weight, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand daily wear and tear.

I had been considering the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, both popular choices in the duty holster market. However, the Safariland offered a more intuitive and faster draw stroke with its ALS system compared to the Blackhawk’s SERPA lock. It also provided a more secure retention level than the Bianchi Accumold, which relies more on friction. I found the overall design of the Safariland more appealing for its streamlined profile and reliable security features.

My first impression was definitely excitement. I was impressed by the build quality and the feel of the retention system. I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-320-261 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III at the shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. This environment allowed me to simulate real-world scenarios and assess the holster’s performance under pressure. I used it through a series of drills involving drawing, firing, and re-holstering in rapid succession.

The holster performed admirably in varying weather conditions, including a light drizzle and high humidity. The nylon-look finish proved resistant to moisture, and the ALS system remained functional despite the dampness. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) also held the holster securely against my body, preventing excessive movement during dynamic drills.

Initially, the draw stroke felt slightly different from my previous holsters, requiring a deliberate thumb movement to deactivate the ALS. However, after a few practice repetitions, the motion became natural and intuitive. I quickly adapted to the system and was able to achieve a consistent and efficient draw.

The only initial issue I encountered was the stiffness of the ALS release. It required a firm press to disengage. However, after some use, the mechanism smoothed out and became easier to operate.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use in both training and operational settings, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has proven to be exceptionally durable. The nylon-look finish has held up remarkably well, with only minor scuff marks from regular contact with gear and equipment. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and reliable weapon retention.

I have observed no significant signs of wear and tear. The holster’s internal components, including the locking mechanisms and release levers, remain in excellent working condition. The UBL also continues to provide a stable and secure platform for the holster.

Maintaining the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is straightforward. I periodically clean the holster with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove dirt and debris. I also apply a small amount of lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III outperforms them in terms of both security and draw speed. The ALS system offers a higher level of retention than traditional friction-based holsters, while the streamlined design allows for a faster and more efficient draw stroke. I am thoroughly impressed with its performance and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-320-261

Specifications

• Category: Als Holsters. This classifies the holster within Safariland’s product line, specifically highlighting its use of the Automatic Locking System.
• Finish/Color: Nylon-Look. The textured nylon provides a durable and professional-looking exterior, resistant to scratches and wear.
• Fits: Smith&Wesson – 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails. This model is specifically molded to fit these particular Smith & Wesson models, ensuring a secure and snug fit.
• Type: Right Hand. Indicates the holster is designed for right-handed users.
• Level III Retention. This holster has three levels of retention, increasing the security.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering.
• Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Allows for mid-ride carry and stability on various belts.
• Hood Guard: Standard feature protecting the thumb release from accidental activation.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s functionality and suitability for specific firearms and users. The precise fit for the S&W 5946/5943 DAO pistols ensures optimal retention and prevents movement during use. The Level III retention and ALS features provide peace of mind, knowing the weapon is securely held in place.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system provides a positive and audible click when the weapon is holstered, confirming that it is locked in place. The thumb release is intuitively positioned for a smooth and natural draw stroke.

The holster’s strengths lie in its combination of security, speed, and durability. The Level III retention provides a high degree of protection against unauthorized removal, while the ALS system allows for a fast and fluid draw. Its weakness may be that the initial draw requires learning the thumb motion for the ALS release.

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III significantly exceeds my expectations. It offers a level of security and accessibility that I have not found in other holsters. I am confident in its ability to perform reliably in any situation.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III features a slim and compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. The holster’s construction is robust, utilizing high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The nylon-look finish provides a professional and durable exterior.

The holster is generally user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system. The thumb release is ergonomically positioned for easy access. The UBL provides a comfortable and stable carry platform.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built to last. The holster’s robust construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand the demands of daily use in harsh environments. I expect it to provide years of reliable service with proper care.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that is required to keep the holster in optimal condition. There are no proprietary parts or complex assemblies that require specialized tools or knowledge.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III includes a standard hood guard, which provides additional protection against accidental release of the weapon. An optional Sentry can be installed to upgrade the retention to Level IV.

The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and mounting platforms. It can also be used with various aftermarket accessories, such as weapon lights and lasers, provided they are compatible with the holster’s molded design. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows it to be easily mounted on different types of belts, enhancing its versatility.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-320-261

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-320-261?

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high-quality duty holster with Level III retention. It’s also suitable for those who carry the specified Smith & Wesson models and prioritize security and speed.

This product might not be ideal for individuals who own multiple firearms with different frame sizes or those who prefer a minimalist holster design. It also may not be suitable for plain clothes officers who require deep concealment.

A must-have modification would be to ensure the ALS release is properly adjusted and lubricated for optimal performance. Consider adding a weapon light compatible with Safariland holsters.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-320-261

Overall, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-320-261 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and security. Its combination of Level III retention, a smooth draw stroke, and durable construction makes it an excellent choice for law enforcement and security professionals.

At $195.00, the price is justified given the holster’s high-quality construction, advanced retention system, and overall performance. It’s an investment in your safety and professional readiness.

I would absolutely recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III to anyone who needs a dependable and secure duty holster for their Smith & Wesson 5946 or 5943 DAO pistol. It is a top-tier product that will not disappoint. Invest in your safety and performance – get the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III today!